Tuning key cover support arm

Abstract

The invention relates to a protective tuner cover for the tuning section of a stringed musical instrument, such as a guitar. The tuner cover is sized to enclose the instrument headstock, or a substantial portion thereof, and includes a section that encloses and protects the tuning keys and knobs of the musical instrument. When constructed as a unitary structure, the tuner cover can be slid onto the instrument headstock. When constructed from separable components, the tuning cover can be opened and closed over the headstock in a bivalve manner if hinged, or by appropriately spaced latching mechanisms if completely separable. The tuner cover can be constructed to enclose and protect one or two rows of tuning keys and knobs, depending on the type of musical instrument.

1. A protective tuner cover and support arm for a stringed musical instrument, said stringed musical instrument having tuning knobs mounted on a headstock, said headstock being formed with a first side with the strings mounted thereon, an opposing second side, and third and fourth sides being substantially perpendicular in alignment to said first and second sides and being on opposing sides of said headstock from each other, at least one of said third and fourth sides having said tuning knobs being mounted thereon;
 wherein said tuner cover comprises an elongate container adapted and configured to fit about at least a portion of said headstock and said tuning knobs, said tuner cover being shaped to cover at least a portion of said first and second sides of said headstock, and at least one tuner enclosure at one or both of said third or fourth sides, thereby enclosing said tuning knobs, and 
 further comprising a support arm that is attached to said tuner cover and can be removably attached to the neck of said stringed musical instrument. 
 
     
     
       2. The tuner cover and support arm of  claim 1  further comprising a tuner interlock bar projecting inwardly from the portion of said tuner cover to cover said first side and configured to contact at least one of said third or fourth sides of said headstock. 
     
     
       3. The tuner cover and support arm of  claim 2 , wherein the tuning knobs are mounted to the headstock by means of tuning knob shafts, and wherein the tuner interlock bar contacts the shafts of the adjacent tuning knobs. 
     
     
       4. The tuner cover and support arm of  claim 2  further comprising a guide rail projecting inwardly from the portion of said tuner cover covering said second side and configured to contact said second side of the headstock. 
     
     
       5. The tuner cover and support arm of  claim 1  wherein said support arm is pivotally connected to said tuner cover. 
     
     
       6. The tuner cover and support arm of  claim 1  wherein said support arm comprises a fastener that removably connects the support arm to the neck of the stringed musical instrument. 
     
     
       7. The tuner cover and support arm of  claim 6  wherein said fastener comprises a flexible strap the can encircle the neck of the stringed musical instrument.